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Volunteering is emerging as one of the most powerful, accessible ways to support healthy aging, with new research showing it can slow cognitive decline by 15–20%. As we enter the new year, and during the UN’s Year of the Volunteer and Alzheimer Awareness Month, it’s an ideal moment to consider how giving your time can strengthen both your life and the lives of others.

A growing body of evidence demonstrates that regularly helping others, whether formally through an organization or informally in the community, has measurable benefits for brain health. Studies following more than 30,000 adults over two decades found that people who volunteer experience slower cognitive aging, with declines reduced by 15–20% compared to those who do not volunteer.

Researchers suggest several reasons for this powerful effect:

Increased social connection, which reduces loneliness and stimulates memory and executive function.
Purpose-driven activity, which supports emotional well‑being and resilience.
Regular engagement, which keeps the brain active through communication, planning, and problem‑solving.

Additional research shows that older adults who volunteer have better episodic memory and executive function, key areas affected early in dementia.

Why This Moment Matters

This year carries special significance.

The UN has declared it the Year of the Volunteer, recognizing the global importance of community contribution.
January is Alzheimer Awareness Month, a time to focus on brain health and support for people living with dementia.
And with a new year underway, many of us are reflecting on how to live with more purpose, connection, and compassion.

Volunteering is a rare opportunity to improve your own well‑being while uplifting someone else’s.

Carefor Volunteer Opportunities

For those in Eastern Ontario, Carefor offers meaningful, relationship‑centered volunteer roles that directly support seniors and people living with dementia:

Non‑urgent medical transportation – Help clients get to essential appointments safely and with dignity.
Adult Day Programs for people living with dementia – Support therapeutic activities, social engagement, and joyful moments.
Friendly visiting – Reduce isolation by spending time with seniors who may have limited social contact.
Support Centres in Eastern Counties – Assist with programs that strengthen community connection and independence.
Carefor Hospice Cornwall – Numerous opportunities from gardening to fundraising events to program support are available.
Fundraising – Help at events which raise important funds for programs at services.

Each role offers a chance to build relationships, learn new skills, and contribute to a healthier, more connected community.

Learn more or sign up at www.carefor.ca/volunteer.

Dementia Programs and Supports

If you require support for a loved one who is living with Alzheimer Disease or other forms of dementia, Carefor has programs and supports available to you.

Richmond Care Home is a 16-unit retirement home exclusively for women living with dementia. With specialized memory care in an intimate and home-like setting, Richmond Care Home is a place where you and your loved one can have peace of mind. Richmond Care Home also offers overnight and daytime respite care.

Adult Day Programs – Our adult day programs on Carling Ave in Ottawa and in Finch welcome people living with dementia to offer a safe and stimulating day out while allowing a loved one a much needed break.

With a shortage of family physicians and long wait times at emergency rooms, many people are turning to the internet to get health information, whether that be prevention or treatment. While the internet has made it easier than ever to look up health information, connect with others, and learn about new treatments, it has also opened the door to a flood of misinformation such as articles, videos, and social media posts that look trustworthy but are inaccurate, misleading, or even dangerous.

Knowing how to spot false or unreliable health information is an important skill, especially for older adults who may be managing multiple health conditions or supporting loved ones in their care. In this article, read about how to decipher between fact and fiction and how to protect yourself against information which might do you more harm than good.

Check the Source First

Reliable health information usually comes from reputable organizations such as hospitals, universities, government health agencies, or well‑known medical associations. If you’re reading an article and you’ve never heard of the website, take a moment to look it up. Does it list medical professionals? Does it cite research? If the source is vague or anonymous, that’s a red flag.

Be Wary of Big Promises

Misinformation often uses dramatic language to grab attention: “miracle cure,” “secret doctors don’t want you to know,” or “guaranteed results.” Real medical advice is rarely absolute. If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Look for balanced information that explains both benefits and risks.

Check the Date

Health information changes quickly as new research emerges. An article from 2012 may no longer be accurate today. Always check when something was published or last updated. Reliable websites keep their content current and clearly display dates.

Look for Evidence, Not Opinions

Trustworthy health information is based on scientific studies, not personal stories or testimonials. While someone’s experience can be meaningful, it shouldn’t replace medical evidence. If an article makes big claims but doesn’t link to research or explain how experts reached their conclusions, be cautious.

Beware of Sales Tactics

If a website is trying to sell you a product like supplements, devices, special diets be extra careful. Misinformation often appears in ads disguised as articles. Ask yourself: is this information meant to help me, or to sell me something?

Talk to a Professional

When in doubt, bring what you’ve found to a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or another trusted health professional including your Carefor Personal Support Worker. They can help you sort fact from fiction and make decisions that support your well‑being.

Staying informed is empowering, and with a few simple habits, you can navigate the online world with confidence and clarity.

Preventing or delaying cognitive decline by flexing your creative muscles

January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, a time to reflect not only on the realities of dementia but also on the many ways older adults can nurture their cognitive health. While there is no single solution to preventing cognitive decline, research consistently shows that engaging in creative activities can play a powerful role in maintaining brain function, emotional well‑being, and overall quality of life after 60.

Much of our adult lives can be focused on taking care of responsibilities moving us and our brains away from the creativity we nurtured in our youths. Creativity isn’t limited to painting or poetry, and can include any activity that invites imagination, problem‑solving, or self‑expression: gardening, cooking, woodworking, music, storytelling, quilting, photography, or even trying a new recipe. What matters most is the act of creating — the process of making something new, meaningful, or joyful.

Why Creativity Matters for the Aging Brain

As we age, the brain naturally changes. But it also remains remarkably adaptable. This adaptability, known as neuroplasticity, allows the brain to form new connections throughout life. Creative activities stimulate multiple regions of the brain such as memory, attention, motor skills, and emotional processing at the sane time, helping to strengthen these neural pathways.

For example, learning a new craft challenges the brain to absorb information, make decisions, and coordinate movement. Playing music activates both hemispheres of the brain, supporting communication between regions. Even colouring or doodling can reduce stress, which is closely linked to cognitive resilience.

Creativity also supports emotional health, which is deeply connected to cognitive well‑being. Older adults who engage in creative hobbies often report improved mood, reduced anxiety, and a greater sense of purpose. These emotional benefits can help buffer the brain against the effects of aging.

Creativity Builds Connection

One of the most overlooked benefits of creative engagement is its ability to foster social connection. Whether it’s joining a knitting circle, participating in a community choir, or attending a writing workshop, creative activities bring people together. Social interaction is one of the strongest protective factors against cognitive decline, helping reduce loneliness and keeping the mind active.

For seniors who may be living alone or experiencing mobility challenges, creative programs, even virtual ones, offer a meaningful way to stay connected and engaged.

Creativity for People Living With Dementia

Creativity remains valuable even after a dementia diagnosis. In fact, many people living with dementia respond especially well to creative activities because they tap into emotional memory rather than short‑term recall. Music from one’s youth, familiar scents from cooking, or the tactile comfort of knitting can evoke feelings of joy, calm, and recognition.

Creative expression also allows individuals to communicate in ways that don’t rely on language or memory. A person who struggles to find words may still hum a tune, paint with bold colours, or move rhythmically to music. These moments of expression can be deeply meaningful for both the individual and their loved ones.

A Community That Supports Creative Living

For women living with dementia who need additional support, Carefor Richmond Care Home is a 16 unit retirement home exclusively for women living with Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia. Located in West Ottawa, Richmond Care Home offers a warm, person‑centred environment where creativity is woven into daily life. Through music, art, movement, and meaningful activities, residents are encouraged to express themselves, connect with others, and experience moments of joy and purpose, every single day. To learn more, visit www.carefor.ca/richmondcarehome

December is a month of reflection. As the year winds down, many seniors look back not only on memories but also on choices that shaped their health. Regret is a powerful teacher, and the good news is that it can inspire meaningful change. With the New Year approaching, here are five common health regrets seniors share, and practical ways to turn them into resolutions for a healthier, more fulfilling year ahead.

1. Not Staying Physically Active Earlier

Many seniors regret letting exercise slip during midlife, realizing later how much mobility and strength matter. The remedy? Start small and stay consistent. Walking daily, joining a low‑impact fitness class, or practicing chair yoga can rebuild stamina and protect independence. A resolution could be: “I will move for at least 20 minutes every day.”

2. Neglecting Nutrition

Skipping balanced meals or relying on convenience foods often catches up in the form of diabetes, heart disease, or low energy. Seniors frequently wish they had paid more attention to diet earlier. The remedy is simple but powerful: focus on whole foods, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. A resolution might be: “I will add one extra serving of vegetables to my plate each day.”

3. Avoiding Preventive Care

Many regret postponing screenings, dental visits, or routine check‑ups. Preventive care is often overlooked until a health issue becomes serious. The remedy is to schedule appointments now, whether it’s a blood pressure check, mammogram, or flu shot. A resolution could be: “I will book all my recommended screenings before spring.”

4. Not Managing Stress and Mental Health

Seniors often reflect on years of stress that went unchecked, leading to anxiety, depression, or strained relationships. The remedy is to prioritize mental well‑being. Practices like meditation, journaling, or joining a support group can make a profound difference. A resolution might be: “I will dedicate 10 minutes each morning to mindfulness.”

5. Failing to Stay Socially Connected

Isolation is one of the most common regrets. Seniors often wish they had nurtured friendships or joined community groups earlier. Loneliness can harm both mental and physical health. The remedy is to reconnect: call a friend, volunteer, or join a club. A resolution could be: “I will reach out to one person each week to strengthen my social circle.”

Carefor offers numerous volunteer opportunities at our senior support centres throughout Eastern Counties and at our Hospice in Cornwall. To learn more about what opportunities are available near you visit our website: https://carefor.ca/contact-us/volunteer/

Turning Regret Into Resolve

December offers the perfect moment to transform regrets into action. Instead of dwelling on what wasn’t done, seniors can embrace what can be done now. Each resolution doesn’t need to be grand; small, consistent steps build momentum and create lasting change.

As the calendar turns, seniors can choose to see regret not as a burden but as a compass pointing toward healthier, more connected living. The New Year is more than a fresh start, it’s a chance to rewrite the story of health with wisdom, courage, and hope.

Carefor’s Support Centres in Lancaster, Winchester, Ingleside, Finch and Alexandria can help you take care of many of these resolutions. With social programs like congregate dining, meal delivery and exercise programs, our support centres offer you many options to help you age well, without regrets. https://carefor.ca/programs/senior-support-centres/

At Carefor, we believe the most powerful tool we have in supporting seniors is not expensive medical equipment or high‑tech facilities—it’s the skill, compassion, and expertise of our staff. Unlike hospitals or clinics, our team members bring care directly into people’s homes, and their knowledge and training are what make the difference. That’s why continuous learning is our secret weapon. By investing in staff training, we ensure seniors across Eastern Ontario receive exceptional, inclusive, and safe care every day. Here are some recent examples of how we’re supporting seniors through education and training.

Building Inclusive Care

Carefor serves people from diverse backgrounds, and we are committed to ensuring our care is equitable and inclusive. On November 26th, Beth Monaco, Manager of Equity and Culture, presented a pilot training on Inclusive Care for the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Developed in collaboration with University of Ottawa students, this training was offered as part of staff orientation to raise awareness about the impact of prejudice and exclusion on 2SLGBTQ+ individuals receiving care in their homes.

This initiative is unique among home care agencies, and we are proud to lead the way. Beginning in 2026, Inclusive Care training will become a standard part of orientation for all staff, ensuring every client feels respected and supported.

Nursing Skills Review Day

Two things Carefor staff bring into people’s homes every day are their passion for delivering high‑quality care and their clinical expertise. To keep those skills sharp, we hosted our second annual Nursing Skills Review Day at our Belfast office in Ottawa on November 26th.

Nurses were invited to connect with vendors and our Professional Practice Team, receiving refreshers and hands‑on practice in areas such as urinary catheter care, wound care, tracheostomy care, and peripheral IV insertion. These sessions ensure our nurses remain confident and up‑to‑date, so seniors receive the safest and most effective care possible.

Supporting Lifelong Learning

Carefor also invests in staff education through our bursary program. Thanks to donor support, in the spring we will award $1,000 bursaries to 10 staff members to help cover the costs of continuing education. This program empowers our team to pursue advanced training and certifications, strengthening the quality of care we provide across Eastern Ontario.

Donations also make it possible for staff to attend professional conferences, such as The Ottawa Hospital Patient Safety Conference, where they gain new insights into best practices, safety standards, and innovations in care. These opportunities ensure our staff remain leaders in home and community care.

Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Training

Mental health challenges are increasingly affecting clients, sometimes creating difficult situations in home and community care environments. To prepare staff, Carefor is offering Non‑Violent Crisis Intervention Training, made possible through the Bell Let’s Talk Grant. This training equips staff with strategies to prevent and manage challenging situations, keeping both clients and caregivers safe.

Why Training Matters

Every training initiative, whether focused on inclusivity, clinical skills, continuing education, or crisis intervention, reinforces our commitment to seniors. Staff training is not an add‑on; it is the foundation of the compassionate, high‑quality care we deliver. By continuously helping our staff learn, we ensure that seniors in Eastern Ontario receive support that is not only professional but deeply human.

Help Make Training Possible

These programs are made possible through community and donor support. By contributing to Carefor, you help our staff grow their skills, attend conferences, and provide exceptional care to seniors across Eastern Ontario.

Donate today at www.carefor.ca/donate and be part of the difference.

Many families in Ontario make avoidable mistakes when choosing a retirement home. By knowing what to look for, and what to avoid, you can ensure your loved one finds the right fit.

Common Mistakes When Choosing a Retirement Home

1. Waiting until a crisis happens
One of the biggest mistakes families make is delaying the search until a health crisis forces a quick decision. This often leads to rushed choices and limited options. Instead, start exploring retirement homes early, while your loved one can participate in the decision-making process.

2. Confusing retirement homes with long-term care homes
In Ontario, retirement homes are privately run and focus on lifestyle, independence, and supportive services. Long-term care homes, on the other hand, provide more intensive medical care and are government-funded. Families sometimes mix these up, leading to mismatched expectations.

3. Focusing only on cost
Price is important, but choosing solely based on affordability can overlook critical factors such as quality of care, staff-to-resident ratios, and community atmosphere. A retirement home should balance affordability with safety, comfort, and social engagement.

4. Not visiting in person
Brochures and websites can’t capture the daily atmosphere of a retirement home. Families who skip in-person visits may miss signs of poor maintenance, lack of activities, or disengaged staff. Touring facilities, talking to residents, and attending events are essential steps.

5. Ignoring future needs
Some families choose homes based only on current needs, forgetting that seniors may require more support over time. Look for retirement homes that offer flexible services, such as assistance with bathing, medication management, or mobility support, so residents can age in place without needing to move again.

6. Overlooking location and community connections
A retirement home should be close enough for family visits and situated in a community that feels familiar. Families sometimes prioritize amenities over location, which can lead to isolation for the resident.

How to Avoid These Mistakes

Plan early: Begin conversations before a crisis. This allows time to compare options and involve your loved one.
Understand the difference: Learn the distinctions between retirement homes and long-term care facilities. The Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (RHRA) offers guidance on licensed homes in Ontario.
Balance cost with quality: Ask about included services, hidden fees, and staff qualifications.
Visit multiple homes: Tour at least three retirement homes, attend activities, and observe resident interactions.
Think long-term: Choose a home that can adapt to changing health needs.
Not understanding the care: Some homes will care for you or your loved one but don’t have specialized programs that meet their needs.

Carefor Retirement Homes in Pembroke and Richmond

For families in the Ottawa Valley and West Ottawa, Carefor Health & Community Services offers trusted retirement living options.

Carefor Civic Complex and Mackay Centre (Pembroke): These homes provide affordable retirement living in the heart of Pembroke. Residents enjoy private or semi-private suites, meals, housekeeping, and a strong sense of community. The Civic Complex and Mackay Centre foster independence while offering support services as needed. Visit our website: https://carefor.ca/services/retirement-living/
Carefor Richmond Care Home (Richmond, Ontario): This unique 16-bed residence specializes in care exclusively for women living with dementia. It combines personalized support with a warm, home-like environment, ensuring residents feel safe and connected. Visit our website: https://carefor.ca/services/retirement-living/richmond-care-home/

Carefor’s retirement homes are not-for-profit, meaning the focus is on people, not profit. Families can have peace of mind knowing their loved ones are cared for in a compassionate, community-centered setting.

Conclusion

Choosing a retirement home is one of the most important decisions families make. By avoiding common mistakes, such as waiting until a crisis, focusing only on cost, or neglecting future needs, you can ensure your loved one finds a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment. For families in Pembroke and West Ottawa, Carefor’s retirement homes offer affordable, community-based living that balances independence with compassionate care.

Start early, ask the right questions, and explore local options because the right retirement home can make all the difference.

Steve Perry, Carefor President & CEO

As the President & CEO of Carefor Health & Community Services, I often reflect on the profound impact of housing not just as shelter, but as a cornerstone of one’s overall health and wellness, especially for seniors in Renfrew County. November 22nd is National Housing Day and an opportunity for society to reflect upon the impact that safe, affordable housing and supports has on the lives of vulnerable seniors and aging adults.

As the cost of living continues to rise, many older adults in our region find themselves at a perilous crossroad: unable to safely remain in their own homes, yet unable to afford the costs of living in a congregate living setting. The story of Melanie Freeman, one of our residents at Carefor Civic Complex, underscores exactly what’s at stake — and what’s possible when we can help people in need.

Melanie’s Journey: From Caregiver to Being Cared For

For ten years, Melanie cared for her mother, Lucille, after a brain aneurysm left her incapacitated. She gave up much of her own independence to manage her mother’s daily needs: cooking, cleaning, dressing, and providing companionship. When her mother passed away in 2022, Melanie was, in her words, “lost” and ended up moving in with her brother’s family. Despite being embraced in this manner, she still somehow felt alone.

A turning point came through a conversation with her doctor, who told her that while it was good that she was getting support from her brother, she needed a permanent place to live and recommended Carefor’s Civic Complex. She went for a tour, moved in that October, and slowly started to build a new chapter in her life.

Today, Melanie is more than a resident: she’s a leader. She helps coordinate activities, socializes with other residents, and shares something quite profound: “For the first time in years, I’m living for myself.”

Her story is deeply emblematic of what supportive, non-profit housing can do. At Carefor, we don’t just provide people with a place to sleep at night, we give people a community to be a part of, a purpose, and a chance to start a new chapter in life.

Why a Housing Crisis in Renfrew County Hits Seniors Especially Hard

Across Renfrew County, seniors represent more than 23.2 percent of the population (higher than the Ontario rate of 18.5 percent). Yet, affordable, safe and appropriate housing options for seniors are very limited. Most seniors live on limited and fixed incomes, and as housing costs skyrocket, they are increasingly faced with other risks: food insecurity, social isolation, and premature hospitalization.

Without appropriate affordable and supportive housing, there will be a ripple effect across the healthcare system. Seniors living in unstable or unsafe housing are far more likely to experience chronic illness, mental health struggles, or repeated hospitalizations. These are all major contributors placing increased pressure on Ontario’s emergency departments, hospital beds, and long-term care facilities.

For low-income seniors, traditional retirement homes are often financially out of reach. Monthly fees can run well into the thousands, making them prohibitive for someone who depends on a pension or limited savings. With no viable alternative, many delay leaving home even when their health deteriorates, and that delay comes at a cost, both human and systemic.

The Value of Supportive Housing

As a not-for-profit charity, Carefor’s Civic Complex and Mackay Centre retirement care homes in Pembroke are operated on a cost recovery basis. That means that all fees paid to reside in one of our residences are reinvested right back into the operations of the facilities. For residents like Melanie, that translates into tremendous value and social impact:

Three meals a day, so no one worries about going hungry.
Medication management, to reduce risk of missed doses or dangerous interactions.
Regular check-ins and housekeeping, to help residents live safely and with dignity.
Recreation programs and social engagement, so people don’t just live – they thrive.

When people have a safe, stable place to call home, broader healthcare indicators improve. Emergency department wait times drop. Hospital admissions are reduced. The burden on our already stressed healthcare system eases, not because we’re limiting access, but because we’re preventing avoidable crises.

The Bottom Line

Housing in Renfrew County is more than a social policy issue; it’s a public health issue. Without affordable, supportive housing:

Our seniors face isolation, illness, and declining quality of life.
Emergency departments carry a heavier load.
Families are left without options for their loved ones.
More seniors end up at food banks, hospitals, long-term care facilities and homeless shelters.

But as Melanie’s story shows, there is hope. With the right kind of housing, not just a roof over one’s head, but a caring, connected community, we can help people rebuild purpose and dignity in their later years.

As Carefor continues to advocate for and provide non-profit housing options, we do so with concrete proof: stable homes save lives, cut healthcare costs, and restore community. That’s the vision I carry as CEO — and seeing residents like Melanie thriving is the greatest validation of all.

To learn more about Carefor’s housing options for seniors in Renfrew County visit www.carefor.ca/retirement

Scams targeting seniors are on the rise, with older adults losing billions annually to fraud. In 2024 alone, Americans aged 60+ reported nearly $4.9 billion in scam-related losses, with an average loss of $83,000—more than four times the average across all age groups. In Canada, fraud is the number one crime against older adults. These scams range from fake tech support calls to elaborate financial schemes, and they often prey on trust, isolation, and unfamiliarity with digital tools.

But seniors can fight back—and stay safe—with a few proactive strategies.

1. Be On Guard

Protecting yourself starts in your head. While many of us grew up trusting the world around us, things have changed, and we must treat people with a degree of suspicion. Assume anyone contacting you wants something from you. It’s your responsibility to ensure they are who they say they are.

2. Know the Common Scams

Awareness is the first line of defense. Some of the most frequent scams include:

Grandparent scams: A caller pretends to be a grandchild in distress, asking for money urgently.
Bank investigator scams: Fraudsters pose as bank staff investigating fake fraud, asking for debit cards and PINs.
Tech support scams: Pop-ups or calls claim your computer is infected and demand payment for fake repairs.
Phishing emails and texts: Messages impersonate banks, government agencies, or delivery services to steal personal information.

One tactic is to create a code word with close friends or family members that only they would know should someone contacting you claiming to be them.

3. Pause and Verify

Scammers rely on urgency. If someone pressures you to act fast—whether it’s sending money, clicking a link, or sharing personal details—pause. Verify the request by:

Calling a trusted family member
Contacting the organization directly using official contact info
Ignoring unsolicited messages and pop-ups

No legitimate organization will demand immediate payment or sensitive information over the phone or email.

4. Use Simple Tech Tools

Technology can help protect seniors from scams:

Robocall blockers like RoboKiller or Nomorobo filter out scam calls.
Email filters and antivirus software reduce phishing risks.
Password managers help keep accounts secure.

Even basic tools like caller ID and two-factor authentication can make a big difference.

5. Stay Connected

Isolation increases vulnerability. Seniors who regularly talk with family, friends, or community support workers are less likely to fall for scams. Encourage open conversations about suspicious messages or financial decisions. Organizations like Carefor offer social work and home support services that can help seniors navigate confusing situations with confidence.

6. Report and Recover

If you suspect a scam, report it to:

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC)
Local police
Your bank or financial institution

Reporting helps authorities track patterns and protect others. In many cases, quick action can also help recover lost funds.

Scammers are clever, but seniors are resilient. With knowledge, support, and a few smart tools, older adults can stay one step ahead—and protect their hard-earned savings and peace of mind.

Practice Getting Up from the Floor

One way to help reduce the risk of falling is to practice getting up from the floor regularly. Often as we age, we avoid getting down on the ground to avoid the groaning that invariably takes place as we work to get back up again. This contributes to a lack of agility over the years that can increase our risk of falling.

One good way to maintain agility is to practice getting up from the floor every week.

To start, you must get on the floor. That may seem daunting.

For those of you who feel you should be able to get down to the floor with just a little instruction follow these steps. (For those who feel that getting onto the floor is not an option, see the instructions for practice that can be done on your bed at the end of this article.)

Here’s one way to get on the floor with control.

Stand by a sturdy piece of furniture like a couch or solid chair and bend at the waist so that your hands can rest on the seat.
Slightly bend the knee of your weakest leg so that you can use your arms and strong leg to lower yourself to one knee.
Place your other knee and both hands on the floor.
Lower your chest to the floor and slide your legs out behind you until you lying on your stomach.

Now you’re on the floor! Unfortunately, most of the time when we fall to the floor we end up on our side and then our back. Before you practice getting up, you’ll need to roll onto your back. I’m going to describe this with directions to roll onto your right side before finally rolling onto your back. You can reverse the instructions if you need to roll to the other side

Place your hands under your shoulder so you can push your chest off the floor slightly.
Slide your right hand through the space between your left arm and torso. This should make you feel off balance.
Roll onto your right side.
If you haven’t already rolled onto your back, lift your left arm toward the ceiling and then behind you.

Now you’re on your back and you might be feeling a little stranded. Not to worry. If we reverse all these steps, we can get back up!

Here’s one way to roll to the right side and onto your stomach

Bend your left knee and place your foot flat on the floor.
Rotote the left knee to your right side as you reach with your left hand to your right side. You should now be on your right side and you may feel like your right arm is trapped.
Use your left arm to push your chest off the floor slightly and pull the right arm through so you can place your right hand under your chest. (You may need to straighten your left leg also.)
Push yourself up onto all fours by straightening your elbows and shifting your weight backwards.
Place your hands on the sturdy piece of furniture.
Place the foot of your strongest leg flat on the floor so that you are now kneeling on one knee.
Use your hands and strong leg to push yourself up.
Instead of standing up directly, rotate to one side so you can sit on the chair.

If you’re not confident that you can get up from the floor with these instructions, start by practicing rolling onto your stomach and then moving into kneeling on all fours on your bed first.

Carefor’s Allied Health Team in Ottawa can support seniors improve their mobility and recover from injury quickly. To learn more about how to access their services visit www.carefor.ca/rehabilitation

When Patricia moved to Pembroke four years ago, she hoped to meet new people and give back to her community. She found the Carefor Friendly Visiting Program and was matched with Therese, a 96-year-old woman living in a local retirement home. What began as a simple volunteer visit has grown into a deep and lasting friendship. They’ve been meeting every week for over three years.

“I brought games on the first day,” Patricia says, “but Therese said, ‘No, no, we’re just going to talk.’ And we haven’t stopped talking since.”

Both women are mothers, grandmothers, and have lived full lives. They connect over shared experiences, from politics and parenting to baseball and aging. One of Therese’s favourite memories? “My son took me to see the Blue Jays in Toronto,” she says proudly. “It was wonderful.”

Patricia, who is retired, finds comfort in her talks with Therese. “She used to be a nurse, so I can talk to her about things I don’t want to burden my family with. It’s not just small talk—it’s meaningful.”

Even in the summer, when Patricia spends time at her cottage, the connection stays strong. “I call her every week from Lakefield,” she says. “We always stay in touch.” For Therese, who has family living far away, the visits bring connection and joy. “My sons call every night, but it’s not the same as seeing someone. I didn’t think I wanted a visitor but Patricia is different. She’s a friend.”

Friendly visiting helps reduce isolation and loneliness, which can seriously affect seniors’ health. It’s not just about companionship—it’s about well-being. “I think people assume volunteering is about giving,” Patricia says. “But I’ve received so much in return. It brightens my week.”

The commitment is small—just an hour or two a week—but the impact is huge. Patricia encourages others to try it. “If you have a caring heart and a little time, you’ll get back more than you ever expected.”

Want to become a Friendly Visiting Volunteer?
Carefor is always looking for kind, compassionate people. Visit carefor.ca or contact your local office at 613-732-9993 to learn more. Because sometimes, a simple visit can change two lives—for good.